December 18, 2024: Taapsee Pannu has officially kicked off her next project, Gandhari, an action-thriller that promises to showcase her in a new and powerful role. Directed by Devashish Makhija and produced by Kanika Dhillon, the film is already generating buzz due to its intriguing premise and Taapsee’s intense involvement in it.
In a recent Instagram post, Taapsee shared glimpses from the set of Gandhari, where she is seen in a striking avatar—posing with her back to the camera in what appears to be a village woman’s attire. The actress is joined by director Makhija and producer Dhillon, both of whom are crucial to the film’s vision. Along with the pictures, she shared a thought-provoking caption, which seems to echo the tone of her character:
“Dear God, grant my request so that I may never deviate from doing good deeds. That, I shall have no fear of the enemy when I go into battle and with determination I will be victorious. That, I may teach my mind to only sing your praises. And when the time comes, I should die fighting heroically on the field of battle. Let the war begin!”
This quote, reflecting a warrior’s mindset, hints that Gandhari will be a gripping tale, possibly involving a strong female protagonist who faces battles, both external and internal, with resolve and courage. The title itself is a reference to a powerful character from the Mahabharata, known for her own emotional and physical battles, which further amplifies the notion that the film may delve into themes of strength, sacrifice, and heroism.
On the work front, Taapsee’s recent film Khel Khel Mein, which co-starred Akshay Kumar, Ammy Virk, Vaani Kapoor, and others, didn’t quite make the impact it had hoped for at the box office. Released during the Stree 2 and Vedaa clash, the film struggled to capture audience attention despite its intriguing premise about friends revealing secrets by sharing their phones. Although the film didn’t perform well commercially, Taapsee’s dedication to diverse roles continues to be evident.
She also earned praise for her performance in Phir Aayi Hasseen Dillruba, which premiered on Netflix in August 2024. In the film, Taapsee portrayed a complex character alongside Vikrant Massey, Sunny Kaushal, and Jimmy Shergill. Her ability to take on varied roles in both mainstream and experimental films highlights her versatility and commitment to pushing boundaries in her craft.
With Gandhari, Taapsee is set to explore a new genre, and her physical transformation and dedication to the role are already creating a lot of anticipation. Fans of her work, especially those who have enjoyed her in intense, emotional roles, are likely to be excited by her upcoming performance in this action-packed thriller. The film’s focus on a female protagonist battling external forces and personal dilemmas could offer a fresh perspective, making it one to watch out for.
